Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing (third year)
Animal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Complete the third year of your Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing online, in partnership with EIT. Gain advanced skills in medical and surgical veterinary nursing, animal welfare, and clinical practice.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Online
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Animal welfare leadership
Place animal welfare at the forefront of every veterinary nursing task and consider human and environmental factors.
Professional responsibilities
Integrate knowledge of the professional, cultural, ethical and moral responsibilities of a veterinary nurse.
Clinical skills mastery
Apply advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in veterinary medical nursing, anaesthesia, and surgical assistance.
What You're Signing Up For
In collaboration with the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Otago Polytechnic offers the third year of the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing qualification online. Learners proceed from the Level 6 Diploma and, upon completing this year, gain a Bachelor-level degree in Veterinary Nursing. The programme focuses on advanced veterinary nursing procedures, animal welfare, surgical and medical skills, and leadership in veterinary care environments. Practical experience is integral, supported by a work placement requirement. Most instruction is online, coordinated by experienced staff. Graduates become skilled veterinary nurses, able to work in clinical, educational, research, and commercial animal health settings.
Course Content
- Integrated medical nursing
- Anaesthesia and surgery
- Applied animal welfare, wildlife, conservation, and emergency care
- Reflective and inquiry-based practice
- Diagnostic sampling and medical imaging
- Portfolio development and practical assessments via work placement
What you need to know first
New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)
National Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (assessed on a case-by-case basis by EIT)
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal health
Veterinary healthcare
Wildlife conservation
Education (animal care)
Future employment opportunities might be
Veterinary Nurse
Veterinary Nurse Educator
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.